Creaky Castle: Tom and the Dark Knight (Creaky Castle)
Creaky Castle Series
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
Tom has the biggest mouth in the kingdom and now he's put his foot right in it! Thanks to him, the terrifying Dark Knight thinks that Tom's father, the tubby, soft-hearted Sir John, is a champion fighter, and he's determined smash him to pieces in Creaky Castle's Grand Jousting Tournament. How can Tom save his father without dropping himself into SERIOUS trouble? Madcap schemes, thumping duels and fearsome foes...it's a medieval knightmare at Creaky Castle!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Tom was brave to face the Dark Knight? What would you have done in his place?
How did Tom's friends help him in his adventure? Can you think of a time when your friends helped you?
What do you think the Dark Knight learned by the end of the story?
If you could add another character to the story, who would it be and why?
How do you think the castle's creakiness affected the story? Would you like to live in a creaky castle?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story. Ask how they might feel or act if they were Tom.
Discuss the importance of friendship and teamwork as showcased in the book. Relate it to real-life situations involving your child and their friends.
Highlight the moral lessons about bravery and kindness. Ask your child how they can apply these lessons in their daily life.
Use dramatic expressions and voice modulations while reading out loud to make the story more engaging and entertaining for your child.
After reading, ask your child to draw a scene from the book. This will help them express their understanding and perspective creatively.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Tom, the main character, showcases bravery as he confronts the Dark Knight, a character he initially fears. This encounter encourages him to handle scary situations courageously.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears, whether it's trying something new or standing up for themselves or others in intimidating situations.
Example Lesson: Friendship and cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the story, Tom collaborates with his friends to solve the mystery of the Dark Knight. This team effort highlights the importance of working together and supporting one another.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this by collaborating with peers in school projects or in team sports, learning that teamwork can lead to success.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: Tom demonstrates critical thinking by piecing together clues about the Dark Knight. This logical approach aids him in solving the mystery.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically when faced with problems, whether in academic challenges or personal obstacles, using reason to find solutions.
Example Lesson: Understanding and empathy
Explanation: As Tom learns more about the Dark Knight’s background, he gains insights into the knight’s behavior, promoting understanding and empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to understand and empathize with peers who may act out or seem different, realizing there may be underlying reasons for their behaviors.